ADVERT 
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has drawn a hard line ahead of Thursday’s planned demonstrations, warning that the State will decisively crush any attempts to descend into looting, violence, or destruction of property.
In a firm address delivered during an interdenominational church service and fundraiser in Soy Constituency, Uasin Gishu County, Kindiki affirmed that while Kenya’s Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful protest, it offers no cover for criminality.
“There will be no room for monkey business anywhere in the Republic of Kenya,” he declared. “We will protect every Kenyan — whether they are demonstrating or going about their lawful business.”
His remarks come as security agencies heighten vigilance amid rising political temperatures over opposition-led protests. The government has signaled a calibrated but uncompromising response — one that distinguishes between constitutionally protected assembly and outright lawlessness.
Kindiki underscored the State’s obligation to maintain order while safeguarding rights, warning that any infringement on the freedoms of others would be met with swift enforcement action.
“Demonstrations are permitted. But there will be no space to loot, to destroy property, or to attack fellow citizens. The rights of all Kenyans must be respected,” he said.
At the same time, the Deputy President dismissed the rationale behind the protests, accusing their organizers of anchoring their calls on “falsehoods and deliberate misinformation,” particularly regarding the Finance Bill, 2026. He maintained that the version passed by Parliament introduces no new taxes.
“Those peddling lies have been exposed. There is no clause increasing taxes. Yet they persist with calls for demonstrations even after the facts are clear,” he asserted.
In a broader political pitch, Kindiki rallied support for President William Ruto’s administration, pointing to gains in economic stabilization, agricultural output, infrastructure expansion, universal health coverage, and the affordable housing programme.
He also reignited debate on presidential tenure, arguing that Kenya’s constitutional architecture anticipates a full two-term presidency to ensure policy continuity and project completion.
“The Constitution envisages a ten-year horizon. The first term initiates transformation; the second consolidates and completes it. Calls for a one-term presidency are inconsistent with that design,” he said.
Kindiki urged Kenyans, particularly in Uasin Gishu County, to remain steadfast in backing the government, assuring them that development is being rolled out equitably across the country.
As the country counts down to Thursday’s demonstrations, the government’s message is unmistakable: peaceful protest will be protected — but any slide into chaos will be firmly and decisively contained.
— End —
